Following the local area SEND inspection by Ofsted and CQC in 2019, we have been working with families, professionals and partners to determine how we can improve and to put those improvements into practice. Information on the progress of this work can be found in our regular SEND newsletter. Outputs of the improvement work alongside our SEND Strategy, updated policies and guidance documents can be found together in this interactive document: SEND in Essex.
Links to specific information can be found below. If you cannot find what you need, please speak to your Link Inclusion Partner or SEND Strategy senstrategy@essex.gov.uk
SEND Strategy - updated November 2022
Guidance for considering an EHC Needs Assessment – October 2021
Guidance for completing an Annual Review of an EHC Plan– Under development, expected Summer Term 2022
Scheme of Delegation and Panel Terms of Reference - how decisions are made throughout the statutory SEND processes in Essex – October 2021
Quality Assurance Framework - the approach to quality assurance of plans and the planning process in Essex – March 2023 (please note this document isn't fully accessible. If you need an accessible version, please email educationwebteam@essex.gov.uk)
Supporting Children and Young People with Medical Needs and applying for IPRA Funding – November 2021
'Ordinarily Available' framework – Under development, with early adopter settings in January 2022. It is a common set of expectations about the provision and practice expected in all early years settings, mainstream schools and Post 16 providers across Essex. Ready to launch to all schools in September 2023
Settings, schools and colleges should use the 'Ordinarily Available' framework to ensure universal provision is in place for all children and young people and targeted additional support is in place for those children who would benefit from it.
Essex Schools Accessibility Strategy - The Equality Act 2010 states that local authorities must publish an accessibility strategy. The Essex Schools Accessibility Strategy is for all schools that Essex County Council has responsibility for, as well as parents and carers of disabled pupils. It sets out how Essex County Council plans to increase:
the extent to which pupils with a disability can participate in the school's curriculum
improving the physical environment of the schools
improving the delivery of information to pupils and their parents/carers
